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Tulum creates a council for animal welfare

Tulum, Q.R. – A body of local authorities has created a Citizen Council for Animal Care and Welfare of Tulum — Consejo Ciudadano para la Atención y Bienestar Animal de Tulum.

This new council body is responsible for addressing animal issues including controlling those that roam the streets.

They will also have the task of promoting activities that help locals understand and respect the rights of animals according to the Law on Animal Protection and Welfare of the State of Quintana Roo.

The new council is supported by the Urban Development and Ecology. William Fernandez Contreras, who is with the Urban Development for the area of Tulum, said it is up to the council to carry out the work of animal protection.

The director of Biodiversity and Natural Areas, the Ministry of Environment (Sema), Francisco Javier Perez Navarrete, said that there is a noticeable amount of homeless animals, particularly dogs. He says many of them are in appalling condition. He also says that there has been an increase in animal abuse in and around the community of Tulum because many of the people lack knowledge and awareness about how to treat animals.

“It’s important to work closely with civil society to propose, plan, develop and establish urgent measures to improve the living conditions of domestic animals and wildlife throughout the state,” he said.

The newly created council also promotes sterilization campaigns, adoption programs, training, awareness for responsible ownership and punishment to those who abuse animals.